Lecture Notes: Research Methods - Key Vocabulary (Hindsight Bias to Random Sampling)

Module 4 and 5 AP psych

Hindsight bias

• Definition: The tendency to believe, after learning an outcome, that one would have foreseen it.

Theory

• Definition: An explanation using an integrated set of principles that organizes observations and predicts behaviors or events.

Hypothesis

• Definition: A testable prediction, often implied by a theory.

Operational definition

• Definition: A carefully worded statement of the exact procedures (operations) used in a research study.

• Variable Definition: Any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or types, impacting the results of a study.

Replication

• Definition: Repeating the essence of a research study, usually with different participants in different situations, to see whether the basic finding can be reproduced.

Case study

• Definition: A descriptive technique in which one individual or group is studied in depth in the hope of revealing universal principles.

Naturalistic observation

• Definition: A descriptive technique of observing and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without trying to manipulate or control the situation.

Survey

• Definition: A descriptive technique for obtaining the self-reported attitudes or behaviors of a particular group, usually by questioning a representative, random sample of the group.

Sampling bias

• Definition: A flawed sampling process that produces an unrepresentative sample.

Population

• Definition: All those in a group being studied, from which samples may be drawn.

Random sample

• Definition: A sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion.